Kungey Alatau Mountains
Amidst Two Nations
Kungey Alatau is a mountain range within the Northern Tien Shan, accompanied by the Ile Alatau and Dzungarian Alatau Mountains. The name originates from «kungey», denoting the southern-facing aspect, and «alatau», symbolizing variegated mountains.
Spanning 275 kilometers (170 mi) from its western to eastern reaches, the mountain range measures approximately 30 kilometers (19 mi) in width. Serving as a natural demarcation, this range delineates the border between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Its zenith, Mount Chok-Tal, rises to 4771 meters (15653 ft), situated within Kyrgyzstan's territory.
The origins of several rivers lie within the confines of Kungey Alatau. Some flow into Kyrgyzstan, while others traverse the mountainous contours, ultimately meandering into the Kazakh valleys. Within this landscape, passes, glaciers, gorges, moraines, and lakes proliferate. Among these, Lake Kaindy and Kolsay Lakes stand as Kazakhstan's most renowned jewels.
Vivid landscapes, painted by the sun's touch, greet travelers at every twist and turn. Sinuous rivers, babbling brooks, perennial evergreen spruce crowns, and enchanting mountain slopes together compose the symphony of Kungey Alatau.
The Kaleidoscope of Flora and Fauna
The botanical and zoological tapestry of Kungey Alatau mirrors that of Ile Alatau, as both occupy the northern expanse of the Tien Shan Mountains. Nevertheless, distinctions arise, molded by geographical positions and climatic nuances. For instance, the dwarf pine and caragana jubata thrive more prominently in Kungey Alatau. Summer unveils alpine meadows bedecked in primroses, poppies, forget-me-nots, gentians, and violets, with resplendent edelweiss gracing the heights. The terrain also harbors spruce forests, deciduous groves, juniper thickets, wild apple and apricot trees, hawthorn, wild rose, barberry, and mint.
The realm of creatures and avian marvels boasts the Tien Shan marmot, tau-teke (Siberian mountain goat), roe deer, ermines, foxes, martens, kestrels, and bearded eagles, among others. The elusive snow leopard occasionally descends from its lofty abode but seldom graces the lower realms.
Notable sights of the Kungey Alatau Mountains:
- Kolsay Lakes
- Lake Kaindy
- Charyn Canyon
- Zhangyryk Glacier
- Taldy Gorge
- Shilik River
- Lake Chon-Uryukty
- Zhelkaragay Pass
- Kurmekty Gorge and others
While Kungey Alatau might not boast the same renown as Ile Alatau nor the diversity of the Dzungarian Alatau, its allure lies in unexplored trails, pristine landscapes, and crystalline mountain lakes that draw global travelers. Embarking on a tour through this unspoiled terrain ensures the discovery of every vibrant nook within these «sunlit» peaks.
Recommended tours:
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Embark on a captivating journey to see the natural jewels of the Almaty region – Kolsay Lakes, Lake Kaindy, and Charyn Canyon. Kolsay Lakes are a cascade of three mountain lakes situated at altitudes of 1000, 2250, and 2700 meters above sea level. Meanwhile, Charyn Canyon stands as the most breathtaking canyon in the region.
-1_420x650_4ab.jpg "Kolsai Lakes Off-Road Tour")
On request
Off-road tour to the mystical in its magnificence Kaindy Lake, amazing in its beauty Kolsai Lakes and a unique creation of nature - Charyn Canyon.
On request
Excellent and quite interesting trekking along one of the most beautiful gorge Kungei-Alatau. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced mountain hikers. And most importantly, do not have to carry a tent!
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Combined tour with elements of easy off-road and fairly simple horseback riding, the charm of which is that all the horseback walkings are radial. Staying for overnight at the guest house, you will have the opportunity to see the most beautiful scenery.
On request
Excellent tour for the real adventure lovers! Horseback trek around forgotten roads, mountaineering on the top of rocky peaks from which view to Khan-Tengri peak is opened. Unknown canyons and mountain trails…
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Ideal option for experienced tourists. Nice horseback route which combines in itself simplicity, interest of unexplored places and staying in mountain hut with breathtaking view to the snowy peaks of Kungey-Alatau.
On request
Excellent tour for the real adventure lovers, but not such experienced for climbing on steep rocky summits. Ideal for those who want to walk pair of tens kilometers on horseback with addiction of hiking.
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Ideal route for those who want to visit middle lake Kolsai, but not in traditional way, where many tourist walk. Route goes along forgotten mountain roads, forests where traces of wild animals can be found.